National Poetry Month: Freedom

“Toni Morrison said, "The function of freedom is to free someone else," and if you are no longer wracked or in bondage to a person or a way of life, tell your story. Risk freeing someone else. Not everyone will be glad that you did. Members of your family and other critics may wish you had kept your secrets. Oh, well, what are you going to do?”― Anne Lamott

After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a conditioned deemed as a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards, I set out on a quest to heal my life.

I had to find the courage to look into all those spaces and places I had kept tightly shut in order to survive childhood paralytic polio followed by years of enduring severe abuse at the hands of family members.

After getting still and asking for Divine Guidance, my pen became my Divining rod for healing as poetry poured out of my heart and soul. Out of the darkness of my past, my pen lit a spark which then became a torch leading the way to my freedom.

From "Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life":

During a meditation, the image of a pinball machine came to mind. I played pinball as a child and remembered the feeling of when the flippers connected with the ball and all the lights, bells and whistles went off. But for years I was used and abused by many. I made the conscious shift from victim to a free soul with:

The Pinball Machine

Put in the quarters feel the flippers I can now take hold
feeling in control more valuable than gold
for many years that little ball bouncing from side to side
racking up points for others and risking my own hide.
Now I’m the only one who plays the game of life is mine
to win I feel my freedom and let my Spirit shine.

Beautiful images came into my consciousness creating beautiful scenarios in which I was free in mind, body and soul.

The Shifting Sands of Time

She wades into the water past present and future swirl at her feet
wringing out with cleansing sobs tears bitter salty sweet.
Gazing on horizon contemplating all that went before
oddly grounded in this moment shifting sands upon the shore.

As seagulls soar above her they remind her she's now whole

from holy hell to journey well she traveled in her soul.

Drinking in the sunshine once doused fire now is lit

a brave and mighty Spirit running free she breaks the bit.

The warmth of sand between her toes her hair a mighty mane

resounding rhythm lapping waves echo life's refrain.

Unbridled joy and freedom breath heaving heart is light

footsteps sure and steady soon disappear from sight.

With an inner knowing smile drenched in sweat her pace can cease
no longer seeking she is found and walks her path of peace.

As I found my way to the sport of running, running set me free.

At the time of the diagnosis, I did not realize that I was trapped, wrapped in shackles by the pain of my past. Once I reconnected with the Divine within and around me, I was able to reclaim my life:

Leaving The Past Behind

I bring a message of hope – a harbinger of good news
like the first robin of Spring…
many the miles I’ve traveled
every step so worth it

Suppressing pain no hope for pleasure
fear and dread my constant travel companions
from exhilaration to exhaustion
no modulation of moods
unknowingly self-inflicted suffering
unaware the healing balm of Divine Love
ever present inside of me.

There’s a space within where fear once lived
tears rush in filling the void
irrigating the battlefield where once I wrestled with the Universe
trembling
lay claim to authentic self
rubbing wrists and ankles where shackles once chafed
the wounds fade into a barely noticeable scar
the pain opens the path to healing…

Strength, courage, confidence and wisdom found
depths of joy, humility and gratitude…

Letting go I celebrate
take flight and soar
formative experiences that drove me to prove myself
academic and professional accolades abound
but inside emptiness and pain…

I awaken
the purpose of my Being
coming into view
drowning out din from the past
going forth living fearlessly to claim my life
Letting go of stories
no longer wondering why
I Become
beckoning others to embody their Being
embracing treasures
feel the wonder and mystery of grace
wander no more
no more wondering why.

Swords lose their edge
fear bleeds out
Truth revealed
holes in the heart patched by Divine Love
tenderly ministered by earth Angels.

Forgive those who wielded the sword
compassion, grace and beauty prevail
appreciate magnificence and mystery
awe and wonder
fragile preciousness of Being
all is transformed by Grace
blessed with awakening from the horror
happy to be alive and free.

My sincerest hope is that through my journey and my poetry, others will be able to find the courage to speak their truth and find their path to healing and freedom!

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and at Paper Fiesta in Natick on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon route.

National Poetry Month: Gratitude

After I received the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease in December of 2006, I was terrified. Then I was angry I mean really pissed off feeling "You've got to be kidding me...after all I've lived through."

One of my friends suggested I watch "The Secret". Now I don't subscribe to that let's look at that necklace in the window and manifest it into my life, but the power of gratitude resonated deeply in my soul.

I immersed myself in the "New Age" thinkers who were really bringing forth the wisdom of the ages. I knew about the power of the mind/body connection but had stopped practicing what I learned from Bernie Siegel, MD in the 1980's. I knew from Bernie's teachings that I was not my diagnosis and needed to understand what and why this was happening to me; not in the why me sense but in the let me understand what my body is telling me.

Without a doubt, Post-Polio Syndrome was my wake up call.

In February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance. With many many print outs surrounding me at the dining room table, something caught my eye.

Lisa Nichols, one of the people who was interviewed for "The Secret" had in her newsletter, "I am so happy and grateful now that I...."

She encouraged us to fill in the blank and had prompts available...I am so happy and grateful now that I can create.

Create? Create what? I asked myself. My award winning Social Work Career at the VA was coming to an end with the diagnosis and I was way past my child bearing years.

And then I felt a stirring in my soul and the poem, "Running the Race" poured out of me followed by many many poems in which I healed a past that had been rife with violence in the wake of contracting paralytic polio and imagined a future very different than the ones the doctors predicted for me.

I knew that the lynch pin in my healing journey was gratitude: to be grateful for all the things in the past, experience deep gratitude for the blessings in my life for there is always always something to be grateful for and feeling gratitude for a new world opening before me.

From "Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life":


The Gift of Polio
Thank you God for the gift of polio that brought me so close to you
while paralyzed I saw your face no matter what I’d do
Many wonderful healers you sent them to me at age 5
perseverance and triumph life’s lessons learned
but my Spirit could not yet thrive.

At age 53 the gift was sent to me a second time
having time to sit and feel to heal I started to rhyme.
The second time felt worse than the first
yet your love and wisdom I found
out of pain and weakness and fatigue a remarkable spirit rebound.

Reliving all the trauma of special shoes and such
I discovered remarkable healers who brought a loving touch.
I had no clue I had such strength and the ability to grow
no matter what the outcome deep gratitude I show.

This gift so precious I live a new life gratitude flows from me
my heart and soul are filled with grace each day’s a gift from thee.

Gratitude Tingles

Heart opens in quiet eyes are closed gratitudes trickle then flow
the basics a home, good food and love awareness begins to grow.
Each beat of my heart reminds me I’m a miracle of life
grace showers constantly upon me relieving alleviating strife.

Goosebumps with each reflection every breath a moment to pause
gratitude tingles feel the warmth relaxing unclenching jaws.
Grateful to now be fully alive so blessed to be kissed awake
appreciation flows in every vein for granted nothing I take.

What joy there is in this journey let Spirit within ever reign
trusting in goodness and kindness erases all fear and pain.
Memory traces from the past pale and fade when facing Source
gratitude overpowers correcting direction on my life’s course.

In moments of meditation happiness joy and peace
from the depths of my soul a fountain grateful blessings increase.
Lips upturn into beautiful smile from head’s crown to tip of toes
gratitude tingles tickling trail of delight everywhere gratitude goes.

The Voice of Love

Gratitudes and affirmations are the way to start my day
Tuning out the static let Your Voice to guide my way.
Lightness, love and laughter are the gifts You give to me
Feeling happy and abundant living joyful feeling free.
Take off the yoke of slavery that was anchored to my soul
Expose the truth of who I am – magnificent and whole.
Living in the moment – hear the raindrops feel serene
Breathing in Your power feeling grateful for this scene.
Your Voice of Love in whispers as the lush leaves bend with grace
Whenever I am with You I am in Your sacred space.
Open heart and open arms let Love cleanse every pore
To wash away the trauma of all that went before.

I kept a gratitude journal while experiencing a deep sense of happiness for the glorious opportunity and possibilities that I knew were available to me.

For the past 12 years I have practiced an attitude of gratitude and write in my gratitude journal every day. Grace and gratitude do indeed make the hard stuff bearable and the good stuff even sweeter!

Do you have a gratitude practice?

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and at Paper Fiesta in Natick on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon route.

National Poetry Month: Calling All Angels

From "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
As I lay paralyzed on the couch from the neck down, my mother glared at me while smoking a cigarette. I didn’t know why she couldn’t or wouldn’t care for me. I had to wait until my father or grandfather came home to get my basic needs met. I had a vision of a Being with a long flowing beard who extended a hand to me only there was no physical hand. This Being sent a well bucket for me to climb in, and, although I was paralyzed, I was able to step into the well bucket to be reeled up to meet this Being. I felt safe, at peace and happy. Somewhere inside of me I knew that I had to make a choice. In that moment I made a choice to return to my physical body. Movement returned to my right side. I wiggled around a little bit on the couch; enough movement to hold my story book. Everywhere I looked whether my eyes were open or closed and even in my story book, I saw this Being. I had my guardian angel to help me through.

I believed in angels since I was 5 years old. Recently I've been blessed to connect with a beautiful circle of people who also believe in angels. Kate and Scott Middlemiss's son Joseph became an angel at the age of 6 years old. To manage the grief of losing a child, they started a foundation, The Joseph Middlemiss Big Heart Foundation. Kate often shares stories of feeling Joseph's presence through the veil that separates the physical world from the spiritual world.

Yesterday's weather for the 2019 Boston Marathon needed an angel's touch. Last year runners ran through driving rain and cold, raw temperatures leaving even some of the elites to a DNF. Initially the weather called for a nor'easter with snow, then a duplicate forecast from last year, then warming temps with driving rain. We woke up to thunderstorms and everyone was feverishly checking the weather app. I checked in with the angels asking them to bless our day with more manageable weather for the runners.

The thunderstorms stopped and by the time the elite runners were off, the skies cleared.

We headed out to our usual viewing spot at approximately Mile 22.5 at the corner of Dean Road and Beacon Street where we told our runner friends we would be.

We cheered on the wheelchair rim and hand cyclists and were anticipating the arrival of the lead female runners when I looked up at the sky:



I posted this caption on Facebook: "Angels are watching over and blessing this day! 4-15 Boston Strong"

I immediately thought of Kate and Scott whose hashtag is #allyouneedislove. The logo for their Foundation is a beautiful heart:


One very special member of the Marathon Team for Team Big Heart is Race Director, Dave McGillivray. He underwent bypass surgery 6 months ago and agreed to take on the 2019 Boston Marathon pledging to raise awareness for heart disease and money for the Foundation. Kate and Scott's son, Jack had the same condition as Joseph but underwent a heart transplant a year ago in February. They have become fellow heart warriors. I knew that Joseph and many other angels were blessing Dave and the 2019 Boston Marathon especially since it fell on the exact anniversary of 4/15/13.

To read more about Dave and his 47th Boston Marathon Run follow this link.

I knew that, despite cheering on the runners from 10:30-4:30, I was meant to be at Cleveland Circle to cheer Dave on to the finish. Tom was inspired to capture it on video:


A photo of Dave at the start in Hopkinton:


The rain and wind stopped right before he set out on his run!

Here are scenes from the finish line:


After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, I discovered the healing power of poetry and wrote these two poems about angels {From Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life}:

Calling All Angels

Winds of worry churn sea of fear tangled knots darkness of night
hopeless despairing lost and alone stars are dim hidden in plain sight.
Heralding to heavens with heavy heart they know what we need
before uttered word they lift our load in silence they’re able to heed.

Calling all angels they swiftly surround a blessing a healing balm
calling all angels comfort and peace their presence sensing we calm.
Calling all angels serenity restored be patient be confident be bold
calling all angels a tincture of time all’s revealed allow all to unfold.

Steady breath full moment’s transformed easy rhythm trusting pace
close mortal eyes look deep within expanding vista showering grace.
Deep in the belly beast is slain freedom and faith now prevail
cherubim torch love lights the way onto heaven’s heights we sail.

Sailing Through the Fog

Fog horn sounding loud and clear
I slowly make my way
sailing through the pea soup fog
across Nantucket Bay.

Ocean dark I used to fear
I feel my fear transform
the arms of God embrace me
trust and faith are now my norm.

Ride the tide of intuition
safe harbor shall I find
by being still and listening
attentive to my mind.

In the middle of the ocean
no land, no sun or sky
feel only love surround me
no need to shake or cry.

My faith is now my anchor
sail tethered to my Source
guided by the angels
I can safely chart my course.

Knowing when to take a turn
to steer to stern or port
instinctive navigation
I'll never come up short!

The freedom in the silence
waves lap the only sound
a comfort in my solitude
no other soul around.

Yet in the fog I sense them
other souls who once did live
the souls who went before me
love and knowledge did they give.

This journey is the answer
allow my soul to grow
the destination's not important
it's being in the flow.

Love and peace they are the beacon
to safe harbor will they lead
when I set my foot again on land
my soul has now been freed!

In April in Boston we celebrate National Poetry Month AND the running of the Boston Marathon. This year we were blessed to experience the presence of angels and signs surrounding a special and sacred day.

Several of my friends who ran Boston said they saw a rainbow over Kenmore Square after the showers passed.

One of my friends who has a heart warrior angel shared this picture of a rainbow over Nantasket Beach:


So while we, in our physical realm, may be calling all angels, they are already here surrounding us with love, light and signs reminding us that love lives on and they are with us always.

From my heart to yours
In Health and Wellness,
Mary

Be sure to visit my website at www.marymcmanus.com

Hear my interview with Kendra Petrone on Magic 106.7's Exceptional Women Show by following this link

My books are available on Amazon and at Paper Fiesta in Natick on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon route.

National Poetry Month: Happy To Be Alive

One of the ways I healed from the trauma I experienced from paralytic polio and abuse at the hands of family members was to write poetry.
From "Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life":

Happy To Be Alive

Face to face with death at knife point
cold darkened eyes stare into mine
unflinching I stare back
afraid to move a muscle
already dead.

Life force safely tucked away
unknowing the outcome of this untimely encounter with death
at the hands of a madman
reasoning destroyed by gin and vermouth.

Angels intervene
he finds peace in death
I am left to put the pieces of my life back together again.
As numbness gives way to pain
pain gives way to gratitude
appreciation for this wondrous wonder filled life

where nothing makes sense and everything makes sense

purpose out of pain
grace in ungodly moments
surrounded by love
happy so happy to be alive

to tell the tale of one who almost died.

The Mountain of Trauma

Weighted down by baggage
I trudged up the mountain that loomed before me
believing I needed all these supplies in order to survive
protective clothing and gear
heavy blankets of fear and panic
sleepless nights in the cold
unable to appreciate the starry night
walled off from all that surrounded me
in solitude I trudged onward and upward
carrying hope in my heart that I would find what I was looking for.

Little by little shedding baggage
leaving the trail of what no longer serves the soul
no need to look back
looking down
stomach lurches with uneasiness
thrown off balance
eyes gaze upward.

Turning my face to the summit
sun radiating warmth
feeling Divine Love on angel slides
my heart quickening its beat
knowing this is the place
seeking no more
planting the flag of my freedom
staking my claim on my birthright
drinking in the moment
no longer a victim
mighty conqueror!

After the OneRun on 5/25/2013, I wrote this - from "The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953":
Race Director Alain Ferry gave us the signal and we were off crossing the one mile to go mark in Kenmore Square. Four years ago, Team McManus headed toward the finish line with strength, courage and determination. The somber mood was quite a contrast to the celebratory mood we ex-perienced when we ran on April 20, 2009. When we got to Hereford Street, I took a deep breath. I knew we were going back to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel across the street from The Forum where the second bomb exploded. As we passed in front of the Mandarin, we stopped for a brief moment to give our thanks to the staff who ensured our safety. How healing and wonderful to see the two doormen who were there on Marathon Monday and express our gratitude to them, and be back on a part of Boylston Street I was terrified to visit.

I told Tom I was ready to sprint to the finish line. I said a prayer as we ran by The Forum. I sobbed as the crowds cheered. We were surrounded by runners with their bib numbers from Marathon Monday and throngs of people who had been touched by the tragic events of April 15. At the finish line we shared stories. We hugged. We cried. We healed. Despite the cold and the rain, the love and energy of the community kept us warm.

Before the start of the OneRun, Alain said, “You are out there to run for those who can’t.”
Those words echoed in my ears. I ran the 2009 Boston Marathon for those who couldn't and for those who were told they shouldn't run or would never be able to run again. I was delivering a message of healing, hope and possibility. Today I was one with the survivors knowing the long road they have for healing. I knew that they, like me, would be able to go the distance. Here I was running the last mile with a deep connection to the survivors of the bombing knowing in every fiber of my being what it’s like to work to regain mobility and to recover from the trauma of facing death. Emotions roiled within me as we listened to the pre-race ceremony speakers and then as we reclaimed Boylston Street as our own. It was a wake up call for me to get back to the sport and community of running. On June 16, 2013, I rolled up my yoga mat for the last time, got a new pair of kicks at Marathon Sports and began a new training plan joining the community of runners that would henceforth be known as Boston Strong.

Tomorrow is OneBoston Day. It's a day to remember and mourn and a day to celebrate all that is wonder-filled and magical about the Boston Marathon and our resilience as individuals and as a City.

There was a long line to enter the Boston Marathon Expo to allow for extra security in the wake of 4/15/13. This adorned the sidewalk outside the Hynes Convention Center:


Signs of Spring and renewal; a reminder of the wisdom of Mother Nature and the ebb and flow of the seasons of our lives.

I appreciate everything in my life and take nothing for granted. Every day I give thanks and I am truly happy to be alive!

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours
Mary

Be sure to visit my website by following this link

My books are available on Amazon.and at Paper Fiesta on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route in Natick, Mass.



“The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” takes you on Mary McManus’ healing odyssey from a wheelchair to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and beyond. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December 2006, Mary got still and asked for Divine Guidance tapping into the powerful connection she experienced to the Divine from an early age. She harnessed the power of her mind to heal her body, feverishly writing poetry in which she imagined herself healthy, whole and free from the shackles of her youth. Mary’s quest to heal her life led her to the sport of running. Her story is one that will leave you cheering for the underdog, discovering the meaning of different ability and experiencing the stunning view from the back of the pack of a race. You will have the privilege of bearing witness to how Mary overcame every challenge that life presented to her. The sport of running provides the backdrop for her journey of transformation from a survivor of childhood paralytic polio and severe trauma at the hands of family members to a woman who embodies faith, grace under fire, courage, determination, endurance and resilience. Running became a way of life for Mary that tested her mettle while forging friendships to last a lifetime. As you’ll discover in “The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” nothing, not even a serious knee injury in December of 2014 could stop her on the roads or in her life.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):


My healing journey using the power of visualization is featured in David R. Hamilton's book, "How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body-Anniversary Edition." It's available on Amazon.

National Poetry Month: Marathon Monday-Running With Heart

Marathon Monday

It's Marathon Monday, it's my day to shine
with husband and daughter poised at starting line.
I know I can do this - there's no way to faila
tethered to God through this race I can sail.

For over a year, we've trained from our heart
mind, body, spirit - we're ready to start.
We know the course and we know the terrain
we're primed for the challenge - we know they'll be pain.

The glory's far greater than what we may face
we're living examples of God's shining Grace.
Shake out all the nerves - there's nothing to fear
let in all the love from the crowds as they cheer.

With prayers and angels our feet feel so light
Joy overflowing the finish in sight.
We conquered the course fueled by love in our heart
the race had been won blessed by God from the start.



I recorded an interview yesterday at Magic 106.7 as part of their award winning Exceptional Women radio show with Kendra Petrone. I've had wonderful interviews throughout the past 10 years sharing my journey but yesterday's interview with Kendra was all heart.

She asked me how I started running and I realized that I never planned to start running! I've often talked about the first poem I wrote, "Running the Race" which foreshadowed my 2009 Boston Marathon run but in yesterday's interview came to the profound awareness that it was something I was called and destined to do.

Kendra was enthralled with my journey, truly eager to find out how I was able to accomplish going from a wheelchair to the finish line of the Boston Marathon and, how I was able to overcome the severe challenges of my youth.

I was delighted to reflect on my healing odyssey and celebrate the 10 year anniversary of when I ran the Boston Marathon.

When I first started running, I ran with my mind and I ran with my heart and soul, for that is where my desire to run the Boston Marathon was born and where the seeds of possibility to transform and heal my life were planted.

As I trained, visualized and watched Run, Forrest Run a thousand times over along with other running movies and inspirational YouTube running videos, and wrote poetry about my journey on the road to Boston, my body responded.

I invite you to tune into to Magic 106.7 Sunday morning at 7:30am and stream live on your laptop or use the radio.com app on your phone as I share my journey on the Exceptional Women show. It will also be available on line after it airs.

To all of my friends running Boston on Monday remember:


To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours
Mary

Be sure to visit my website by following this link and at Paper Fiesta on Mile 10 of the Boston Marathon Route in Natick, Mass.

My books are available on Amazon.



“The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” takes you on Mary McManus’ healing odyssey from a wheelchair to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and beyond. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December 2006, Mary got still and asked for Divine Guidance tapping into the powerful connection she experienced to the Divine from an early age. She harnessed the power of her mind to heal her body, feverishly writing poetry in which she imagined herself healthy, whole and free from the shackles of her youth. Mary’s quest to heal her life led her to the sport of running. Her story is one that will leave you cheering for the underdog, discovering the meaning of different ability and experiencing the stunning view from the back of the pack of a race. You will have the privilege of bearing witness to how Mary overcame every challenge that life presented to her. The sport of running provides the backdrop for her journey of transformation from a survivor of childhood paralytic polio and severe trauma at the hands of family members to a woman who embodies faith, grace under fire, courage, determination, endurance and resilience. Running became a way of life for Mary that tested her mettle while forging friendships to last a lifetime. As you’ll discover in “The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” nothing, not even a serious knee injury in December of 2014 could stop her on the roads or in her life.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):


My healing journey using the power of visualization is featured in David R. Hamilton's book, "How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body-Anniversary Edition." It's available on Amazon.

National Poetry Month: Light Always Wins & Movie Review - The Boston Marathon Documentary

From "Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life":

Out of our deepest wounds we find our greatest strength, our most beautiful treasures and the knowledge that love is far greater and more powerful than any experience we endure. ~Mary McManus

As we approached the one-year anniversary of the Boston Marathon Bombing, I was inspired to write this poem:

Light Always Wins

In their flower beds
awakened by the warm Spring sun
they shiver
unexpected wind chill
mid-April in Boston
we shiver to remember
one year ago
what a difference a year makes
turn over from Winter to Spring
slow
is it always this slow
or a gentle reminder
we are still healing.

Mother Nature has her own rhythm
trust in the Divine
taking time
remember
roots extend deep into earth
we were shaken
we rise

eager to shed our coats
vibrant colors of the soul
radiant
reflecting resilience
invincibility
light always wins.

Last night I had the distinct privilege of watching The Boston Marathon Documentary. There was a meet and greet with the Director, Jon Dunham and Executive Producer Tom Derderian at Barleycorn's Craft Brew before the screening at The Center for the Arts Natick. My husband Tom and I went to watch it several times on iTunes but something would interfere. I am so glad it did for while I will definitely purchase the film on iTunes, I am so glad I experienced the film in a theater.



And experience is the word you want to use when it comes to the Boston Marathon Documentary. The soundtrack complements the film without overpowering it and fuels the emotions that ebb and flow while watching the film. Anyone who sees the film will bring their own experience to the experience whether they are a runner in love with the sport and the Boston Marathon, a runner who has run Boston (as we did) and experienced the events of 4/15/13 first hand (as we did), someone affected by the events of 4/15/13 or someone who loves a good documentary. While the events of 4/15/13 provide a pivotal point in the documentary, Jon takes a broad brush look at the Boston Marathon and its ripple effects around the world. While I experienced intense emotions, especially as the 6th anniversary of 4/15/13 approaches on Monday and with this year marking the 10th year anniversary of my iconic Boston Marathon run, I delighted in learning new information about the Boston Marathon. (No spoiler alerts!)

The film is expertly woven together with historical footage of the Boston Marathon and interviews with such running greats as Bill Rodgers, Amby Burfoot, Frank Shorter, Geoff Smith, Rob DeCastella, and Jack Fultz with heartfelt commentary from Race Director Dave McGillivray. The viewer gets a behind the scenes look at running shoes and what it takes to secure an event like the Boston Marathon in the wake of the 4/15/13 events.

One of the most powerful moments for me was when we hear President Obama's riveting speech after 4/15/13 that included:




"It's not just an athletic competition. Our race has saved lives!" ~Dave McGillivray

I can attest to Dave's statement!

Running the Boston Marathon saved and transformed my life; a powerful healing agent in my recovery from paralytic polio and trauma.

Watching The Boston Marathon documentary will change yours!

It's National Poetry Month AND Boston is ready to run again on Monday.

There is so much to honor and celebrate!

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours
Mary

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.



“The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” takes you on Mary McManus’ healing odyssey from a wheelchair to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and beyond. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December 2006, Mary got still and asked for Divine Guidance tapping into the powerful connection she experienced to the Divine from an early age. She harnessed the power of her mind to heal her body, feverishly writing poetry in which she imagined herself healthy, whole and free from the shackles of her youth. Mary’s quest to heal her life led her to the sport of running. Her story is one that will leave you cheering for the underdog, discovering the meaning of different ability and experiencing the stunning view from the back of the pack of a race. You will have the privilege of bearing witness to how Mary overcame every challenge that life presented to her. The sport of running provides the backdrop for her journey of transformation from a survivor of childhood paralytic polio and severe trauma at the hands of family members to a woman who embodies faith, grace under fire, courage, determination, endurance and resilience. Running became a way of life for Mary that tested her mettle while forging friendships to last a lifetime. As you’ll discover in “The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” nothing, not even a serious knee injury in December of 2014 could stop her on the roads or in her life.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):


My healing journey using the power of visualization is featured in David R. Hamilton's book, "How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body-Anniversary Edition." It's available on Amazon.

National Poetry Month: Running Free

In February of 2007, on a cold dark day in the midst of the dark night of my mind, body and soul, a spark within me was lit through the power of my pen. While I sat in a leg brace using a cane and at times a wheelchair for mobility, my mind imagined myself free from the constraints of my then physical condition and free from the shackles of my past.

As I watched the scene "Run Forrest Run" over and over again, I imagined breaking free from my leg brace.

I feverishly wrote poems about transforming the trauma from my past and running free.

Running did not and does not come easy to me and yet when I am outside running, I transcend all struggle and become One with all that is and One with the amazing community of runners who embrace me being a part of the sport regardless of my pace or how I may look when I run.

From "Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life":
It is easy to succumb to a diagnosis. There are many well documented cases of a person dying exactly when a doctor predicted they would. In one case, cited by Dr. Joe Dispenza in You Are The Placebo, a man believed that he had terminal cancer when on autopsy there was no indication of cancer anywhere in his body. He believed what the doctors told him and his body acted on those beliefs even though it was not the cancer that caused his death but his belief about the cancer. We embody what we believe and so I had to make a choice and I decided on:

A Well Chosen Path

PPS, MS, cancer stroke and more
many diagnoses exist in the doctor’s store
does diagnosis shape and a cripple does it make
or do I use the pain to choose the path I want to take?

No matter what the outcome there’s no way I can fail
for when I take the hand of God through adversity I sail.
The body is imperfect but my soul is shining free
there’s never any limit to the true essence of me.
I get in tune and get in step knowing every limb is healed
running wildly with the wind embracing flowers in the field.

I love myself beyond all words a message says to live
and from my open grateful heart to others do I give.

I imagined running as a horse runs in the wild with its mane rhythmically flowing with the breeze and with a stride that is strong, sure footed and graceful.

The Thoroughbred

A dark horse
dark past
finishing last
ready to quit
battered and bruised
a foal fouled
yet Spirit unbroken
a thoroughbred deep inside
despite appearances
all she needed was a chance
someone to believe in her
a horse whisperer
in the mist
amidst fog and foliage
she runs
breaking free
transformed
into the champion she was always meant to be.

and transformed the trauma with every mile that I imagined myself running:
The Source

Wellspring of joy flows deep within soul
rising surprisingly healing brokenness whole.
Thawing and melting magnificence made new
cleansing congestion reveals radiance True.

Miracles arise from this sacred space
fears and pain transformed by Your Loving Grace.
Running and laughing happiness free
a raucous rampage a celebration spree.

Grounded sure footed it's time fancy fine
Divine Love a waterfall cascading spine.
Fools were blind to this treasure so rare
unstoppable unceasing heart open to share.

The joy in the journey a sight to behold
the glory her triumphs she runs brave and bold.
Each footstep each mile transformed and made new
a champion reborn glorious Spirit shines through.

Soon, my imagination merged with reality and I laced up my running shoes stepping WAY out of my comfort zone on the road to the Boston Marathon.

"Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them." -Marcus Aurelius

Born to Run

Born free
born to run
run free
unencumbered untethered unshackled
pouring energy into my running form
liquid gold once fired in the crucible
now my treasure born of my Spirit molded with alchemy
refining
my precious treasure once buried
the map safely tucked away
X marks the spot
a new starting line.

Poised and ready
to go the distance
all out without hesitation
all is healed at last
my pace swift
Mercury and Hermes pace me on winged feet
I AM
born to run
running free
joyfully crossing the finish line with ease.

Running free and healing the effects of paralytic polio and trauma began in my imagination. It began to take form as I put pen to paper writing poems creating a new physical reality very different from what was my current situation and very different from the future the doctors predicted for me.

April is National Poetry Month and the month I get to celebrate my 2009 Boston Marathon run when I ran free and crossed the finish line as a woman transformed.

To your health and wellness
From my heart to yours
Mary

Be sure to visit my website by following this link.

My books are available on Amazon.



“The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” takes you on Mary McManus’ healing odyssey from a wheelchair to the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and beyond. After the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December 2006, Mary got still and asked for Divine Guidance tapping into the powerful connection she experienced to the Divine from an early age. She harnessed the power of her mind to heal her body, feverishly writing poetry in which she imagined herself healthy, whole and free from the shackles of her youth. Mary’s quest to heal her life led her to the sport of running. Her story is one that will leave you cheering for the underdog, discovering the meaning of different ability and experiencing the stunning view from the back of the pack of a race. You will have the privilege of bearing witness to how Mary overcame every challenge that life presented to her. The sport of running provides the backdrop for her journey of transformation from a survivor of childhood paralytic polio and severe trauma at the hands of family members to a woman who embodies faith, grace under fire, courage, determination, endurance and resilience. Running became a way of life for Mary that tested her mettle while forging friendships to last a lifetime. As you’ll discover in “The Adventures of Runnergirl 1953” nothing, not even a serious knee injury in December of 2014 could stop her on the roads or in her life.

Feel the Heal: An Anthology of Poems to Heal Your Life


Coming Home: A Memoir of Healing Hope and Possibility that chronicles the first 7 years of my healing journey:


Going the Distance: The Power of Endurance (With a Foreword by Jacqueline Hansen):


My healing journey using the power of visualization is featured in David R. Hamilton's book, "How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body-Anniversary Edition." It's available on Amazon.